General construction superintendents oversee all phases of a construction project from initial planning to completion. Some superintendents specialize in public works projects, such as dams or bridges; others prefer to build homes or office buildings. The job description of a general construction superintendent varies by the nature of the project and the employer, but certain tasks are commonly associated with the occupation.

Handle Human Resource Functions

Construction superintendents interview and select workers for the site. They are typically responsible for communicating site rules regarding safety procedures to new hires and enforcing those rules. Superintendents might serve as timekeepers or approve time cards for payroll. They normally prepare the work schedule and must approve time off requested by workers. Construction superintendents might need to answer questions for employees regarding benefits and pay. If workers are covered by a trade union, the superintendent normally acts as the contact person for the union representative. Superintendents must also be familiar with each labor contract to ensure that violations of the terms do not occur.

Supervise Construction Activities

On a large job site, construction superintendents typically supervise foremen, who in turn supervise the workers. On smaller sites, the superintendent may be the manager who instructs the workers directly. Supervision might involve assigning teams to specific jobs, providing training for new hires or directing workers on the order of tasks to be performed. Regardless of the level of direct supervision provided, it is normally the job of the construction superintendent to inspect work performed by employees, other contractors and sub-contractors.

Handle Cost Accounting Functions

General construction superintendents are typically involved in pre-construction estimates and budgets. As the project progresses, they monitor expenses to ensure that they are meeting budget and if not, determine whether it is possible to make up the difference. Superintendents maintain records of material and labor costs, sometimes with the aid of a construction secretary or accounting clerk. They also track the inventory of supplies and materials to guard against loss and to ensure that vital materials are ordered and delivered to meet schedule.

Coordinate Activities

The construction superintendent must coordinate the activities of a variety of tradespeople, professionals and laborers. They may need to work closely with the architect or engineer who designed the project or the lawyer who is securing the zoning change needed for the project. Superintendents must plan work schedules so that conflicts do not occur, such as having a crane operator report before the item to be lifted has been fabricated or delivered.

Experience and Education

The job of general construction superintendent is not an entry-level position. Most employers prefer candidates with at least four years of experience in a building trade. The educational requirements vary considerably by employer. Some will accept applicants with adequate experience, but others prefer candidates with a four-year degree in construction project management.

Salary and Job Outlook

The median annual salary for construction managers was $84,240 in 2011, according to O-Net Online. For the decade ending in 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projected the growth rate to be 19 percent, slightly above the national overall average of 14 percent.

About the Author

Jeffrey Joyner has had numerous articles published on the Internet covering a wide range of topics. He studied electrical engineering after a tour of duty in the military, then became a freelance computer programmer for several years before settling on a career as a writer.